Unlocking ADU Potential: Your Guide with Miami Architecture Firm, United Architects, Inc.
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  • Writer's pictureMaria Luisa Castellanos

Unlocking ADU Potential: Your Guide with Miami Architecture Firm, United Architects, Inc.


Are you considering adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to your Miami-Dade County property? As a premier Miami architecture firm, United Architects, Inc., we're here to guide you through the process. Miami-Dade County recently introduced a new ordinance allowing the addition of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to single-family homes, subject to specific conditions. If you're eager to explore these conditions further, you can delve into the details here.


But maybe you live in a municipality and the Miami-Dade County ordinance will not apply to you. What other municipalities allow ADUs?


Miami Springs

Let's delve into the specifics. In Miami Springs, for instance, single-family residential homesites have the potential to accommodate two accessory structures. These structures, including private garages and playhouses, must comply with construction and location regulations and occupy no more than 15% of the rear yard. While certain dwelling units are prohibited, ADUs for personal use, such as family rooms or playrooms, are permissible.

City of Miami

The City of Miami offers valuable options, particularly in zones like T3-L and T3-O. T3-L caters to single-family homes with ADUs, while T3-O allows duplexes. An ADU in the City of Miami cannot be larger than 450 square feet. Duplexes under the Miami 21 Zoning Code require that duplexes be built side by side, not one in the front and one in the back. Both classifications offer unique opportunities for expanding residential properties. Additionally, under specific conditions, homeowners with Single Family Estate Lots exceeding one acre may erect accessory buildings as well.

Coral Gables

In Coral Gables, guest houses are permitted under certain conditions. Residential Estate zoning, for instance, allows guest houses with a maximum size of 600 square feet or 10% of the ground area of the main building. However, these guest houses are typically not for full-time residents and must adhere to specific lot size and dimension requirements, including a lot that is 1.5 acres, has a minimum width of two hundred (200) feet, and a minimum lot depth of two hundred and fifty (250) feet.

There may be other areas that also allow ADUs, but these are the ones with which I am very familiar.

Designing your ADU with United Architects

Navigating the intricacies of ADU regulations can be daunting, but with the expertise of United Architects, Inc., you can seamlessly navigate the process. As a trusted Miami architecture firm, we specialize in realizing your architectural visions while ensuring compliance with local ordinances and regulations.

Whether you're considering an ADU in Miami-Dade County or exploring options in surrounding municipalities, United Architects, Inc., is your partner for innovative design solutions tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today to embark on your architectural journey in the vibrant city of Miami.


Remember, our team is dedicated to transforming your architectural dreams into reality while ensuring full compliance with local regulations. Let's work together to create stunning, functional spaces that elevate your lifestyle and enhance the beauty of our beloved Miami community.


Call 305-439-7898


Call Maria Luisa Castellanos, R.A., principal of United Architects, at 305-439-7898, to discuss your project.

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